Katana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a katana?
A katana is a traditional Japanese sword recognized by its curved, single-edged blade, circular or squared guard (tsuba), and long handle designed for a two-handed grip. Historically carried by samurai warriors, the katana is celebrated worldwide as both a masterwork of metallurgy and a symbol of Japanese culture. Today, katana swords are collected as art pieces, displayed as home decor, and used in martial arts training.
What steel is best for a katana?
It depends on your goals. 1045 carbon steel is durable and affordable — great for first-time collectors. 1095 carbon steel and T10 tool steel offer excellent edge retention and are ideal for serious enthusiasts. Damascus steel is prized for its distinctive folded patterns. For the ultimate in tradition, tamahagane steel represents the pinnacle of Japanese sword-making, produced using methods dating back centuries.
What is a full tang katana?
A full tang katana is a sword where the blade's metal extends the entire length of the handle, making the blade and handle one continuous piece of steel. This construction provides superior structural integrity, better balance, and enhanced durability compared to partial tang designs. All TrueKatana swords feature full tang construction as standard.
How should I care for my katana?
Clean the blade with a soft, lint-free cloth after each handling to remove oils and fingerprints. Apply a thin layer of choji oil (or mineral oil) every few months to protect against rust. Store your katana in a dry environment with the cutting edge facing upward. For display pieces, avoid direct sunlight to preserve the saya's lacquer finish.
Does TrueKatana offer free shipping?
Yes. Every katana order ships free within the United States — no minimum purchase required. We also offer international shipping to most countries. Standard U.S. delivery typically arrives within 1–2 weeks for hand-forged items, while our Ready to Ship collection delivers in 3–7 business days.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee on all purchases. If your katana doesn't meet your expectations, contact our support team within 30 days of delivery for a full refund or exchange. We want every customer to be completely satisfied with their sword.
Are your katana swords handmade?
Every katana in our collection is individually hand-forged by our team of 40+ skilled swordsmiths. From steel selection and forging to clay tempering and handle wrapping, each step is done by hand using traditional Japanese techniques. No two swords are exactly alike — that's what makes each one a genuine collectible.
Can I customize a katana?
Absolutely. Our custom katana service lets you choose the blade steel, length, handle wrap color, tsuba design, saya finish, and more. Custom Japanese swords are built to your specifications and typically ship within 3–4 weeks. Visit our Custom Katana page to start designing yours.
Explore More Categories
Customer Reviews
I just bought This katana and it’s beautiful. It came with dragonfly designs. This is one great piece of artwork.
1000-Layer Folded Steel Katana with Red Lacquer Saya - Black Cord Handle, Gold-Black Flower Tsuba
Verified Purchase
This is the 2nd Sword I have purchased. The last one (so beautiful) was a Christmas gift as is this last one I purchased. I have not opened it yet. I want to be surprised as my Grandson when he opens it. I know it will be as beautiful
Blue 1060 Carbon Steel Katana with Hand-Painted Pearlescent Saya and Gold Wave Tsuba - Full Tang Samurai Sword
Verified Purchase
Not as sharp as I hoped for, but otherwise it's amazing.
1000 Layer Folded Steel Katana with Red Blade and Dragon Copper Tsuba in Grey Leather-Wrapped Saya
Verified Purchase
This is the most amazing Katana I have had the pleasure of owning. There is a perfection to it that is unmatched. The leather tsuka, love it. It's tip of a dragon head is beautiful. The tsuba is a solid piece of dragon art. The saya is engraved with shapes related to the theme. As for the nagasa... the idea of 1,000 times folded is mind boggling. The color, that perfect red and black. Looks like a surface of water in motion. I truly love this katana. Although a gripe of misunderstanding was addressed. The katana is perfect. I also hope they will be better with communication in the future.
1000 Layer Folded Steel Katana with Red Blade and Dragon Copper Tsuba in Grey Leather-Wrapped Saya
Verified Purchase
This katana is the real deal! Very happy with my purchase. Its not a cheap knock off. The quality is excellent.
Blue 1060 Carbon Steel Katana with Hand-Painted Pearlescent Saya and Gold Wave Tsuba - Full Tang Samurai Sword
Verified Purchase
Beautiful swords! Amazing craftsmanship! I'm very impressed and happy with the quality! Will be buying from them again 👍
1000 Layer Folded Steel Katana with Red Blade and Dragon Copper Tsuba in Grey Leather-Wrapped Saya
Verified Purchase











